A collection of my rambling thoughts that just need to be put down somewhere

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Do-Not-Call List for Canada

Finally!! On Sept 30, 2008, the natinal do-not-call list will officially begin operating. It means, I can opt never (for a period of 3 years) to receive any calls from telemarketer anymore (who seems to call during dinner time, movie time, or even bed time).

There are two ways to be on this do-not-call list. You need to either call Bell Canada, or register online at www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca. The telemarketers have 30 days grace period, which means you will probably still get calls during the month of October. But after that, they will be fined if you complain about it.

The list only lasts for 3 years, so you need to re-register every 3 years. But triennial-5-minute efforts of inputting all your phone numbers on the website will prevent countless unwanted calls to your phone. So I say it's worth it.

As usual with any rules, there are exceptions. Charities, political parties, polling firms, newspapers and companies that have done business with an individual over the past 18 months can continue to make unsolicited phone calls.

But there is hope yet. In March, an internet law professor at the University of Ottawa set up a website, www.ioptout.ca. The site has a database that allows users to choose from the hundreds of organizations (including the ones on the exception list above) and send them an automated e-mail removal request.

If you are the type of person who just cannot say "No, I am not interested," and hang up, you probably should register as well.

PS: The logo is for American Do-Not-Call List. Can't find one for Canada yet.